A NEW app has been launched to make it easier for customers who want to spend Bristol Pounds with local businesses.

The app, which can be downloaded from the App Store or Google Play, will notify shoppers of nearby businesses accepting the local currency, track spending and highlight local discounts for using it.

Graham Woodruff, Bristol Pound CIC technical director, said: "People have been nagging us for an app since we launched, so we're delighted to finally have one.

"We hope that our members will try it out and let us know how it goes!"

It has been developed by Knowle-based software firm Pocket Intelligence.

Nick Xiao, from the firm, said: "We love the city of Bristol and are proud of being Bristolians. The launch of Bristol Pound was a phenomenal event that gives even more character to the city, supports local businesses and promotes a fairer, happier and greener community.

"As one of the local businesses we are keen to contribute as much as we can in our own way, and developing a mobile app for Bristol Pound is the most pragmatic way for us to do so."

The app provides an up-to-date list of nearby Bristol Pound businesses, which are taken directly from the online Bristol Pound directory.

Discounts will be listed when the user goes to the business profiles. Members can also see a breakdown of their transactions to demonstrate how much they have contributed to their local economy.

The app improves the text payment system.

Stephen Clarke, pictured, Bristol Pound CIC director said: "Members already love using the TXT2PAY service; it is a risk-free way to make a clear statement that they want to support their local high streets. This app will make it even easier."